A theme park claiming to be the world's first to offer exclusively immersive experiences opened to the public Friday in Tokyo's popular commercial district, Odaiba, its operator said.

Immersive Fort Tokyo boasts 11 attractions allowing visitors to enter recreated fictional worlds of characters from popular novels and anime, including those of British detective Sherlock Holmes and J-pop idol series "Oshi no Ko," operator Katana Inc. said.

Visitors enter "the world's first" immersive theme park, Immersive Fort Tokyo, on its opening day on March 1, 2024 in Tokyo's popular commercial district, Odaiba. (Kyodo)

Before opening, visitors waiting to enter the park clapped and cheered as operators announced they would open 15 minutes earlier than scheduled.

"This is my first time going to an immersive theme park," said 22-year-old university student Seita Misawa, who had come to the park with friends. "I like mysteries, so I'm especially looking forward to 'The Sherlock' experience," he said.

The experience recreates settings from Sherlock Holmes' world in 19th century London, replicating locations such as his office and a bar in an approximately 3,000 square meter "immersive theatre," where visitors can walk around freely and attempt to solve a murder mystery.

The Osaka-based operator comprises staff that formerly worked for the operating firm behind Universal Studios Japan.

Tickets for those aged 12 and over are priced from 6,800 yen ($45) each, from 3,000 yen for those between 4 and 11 years old, and free for children under 3. Some attractions have age restrictions.


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